AP PHOTOS: Bosnian promoting 'slow way of life' to artists

DZAFICI, Bosnia-Herzegovina (AP) — A carpenter who builds traditional Bosnian houses wants to remind people of the old way of life in harmony with nature — far from the hubbub of city life, TV and computers.

So Rasim Hamidovic, 60, invited 26 artists to this quiet village last weekend to paint, write or just hang out and rediscover traditional Bosnian "slowness."

"We promote art, friendship, nature, to people who spend their lives working all day long, watching TV or starring at computer screens," said Hamidovic, who has staged the weekend "art colony" event for the past five years.

Apart from enjoying the breathtaking October scenery, the artists painted or wrote poems while enjoying traditional food, laughter, dancing and singing.

Villagers joined the project, offering cooking and accommodation, and organizing village parties.

"We all need to get back to nature," said Hamidovic. "We need friendship, we need children playing outside ... We all need a break."